notoriety
noh-tuh-RYE-uh-tee
/ˌnoʊ.təˈraɪ.ə.ti/
The state of being famous or well-known for a bad quality, bad deed, or negative reason.
Distinct from fame or renown because it specifically carries a negative or scandalous reputation.
The story behind the word. berasal dari Latin 'notorius' (making known), from 'notus' (known). While originally meaning general visibility, by the 17th century English speakers shifted its meaning almost entirely toward unfavorable public recognition.
Word relationships
- infamy: Infamy implies extreme, lasting dishonor, whereas notoriety can sometimes be fleeting or scandalous.
- renown: Renown is widespread fame achieved through admirable talents or noble accomplishments.
Commonly confused with
- fame: Fame is neutral or positive celebrity status, whereas notoriety is strictly negative celebrity status.
Word family
- notorious (adjective): Famous for something bad.
- notoriously (adverb): In a well-known negative manner.
Collocations
- gain notoriety
- achieve notoriety
- infamous notoriety
Example sentences
- "The criminal achieved global notoriety after fleeing the country during his trial." True crime
Memory hook
NOT-oriety = famous for being NOT good. Bad fame.
When not to use
Do not use to describe heroic, noble, or celebrated achievement.
Fun facts
- In legal English, a 'notorious fact' once simply meant a fact so obvious that no proof was required.
Related words
Explore more words
notorious, infamous, scandalous, ignominy, opprobrium, disgraced
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